Summer is months away, and I am craving the bright sun and long days. When I was a child, summer meant school was out of session, leaving plenty of time for vacation, camp, sleepovers, and movie marathons. As I've aged, summer has become a short window to explore the world and to take on new challenges. No matter what stage of life you're in, you might be wondering how you should spend your months of vacation, so keep reading and become inspired to make the most of this summer.

And so with the sunshine and the great bursts of leaves growing on the trees, just as things grow in fast movies, I had that familiar conviction that life was beginning over again with the summer.

— F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby

Find a Summer Job

If you're spending the summer at home, a great way to remain productive is to work a summer job. Whether you spend your days life-guarding or busing tables, you'll be sure to pick up some interesting stories, experience for your resume, and extra cash.

Land an Internship

If you want to gain experience in your field of interest, an internship is probably a wonderful option for you, and most applications are due January-March. You'll get to shadow people who are living out your goals. Last summer, I interned at the Mississippi Museum of Art and loved it, so this summer, I'm applying to more museums. An internship is a great way to test out what you're considering as a career. Plus, internships can take you all over America and the globe. Travel and experience? Sign me up!

Travel the World

With four months of no school, traveling just makes sense. Backpack through Europe, or take smaller trips throughout the summer. Go to Latin America or Africa. Just get out and see the world. Check out this blog for thrifty travel tips, which I used to plan a trip to Chicago for this summer.

Be a Camp Counselor

Camps across the United States offer jobs for college students in the summer. You'll have the opportunity to impact lives and to travel while doing it. Check out Fuge, PineCove, Lake Forest Ranch, or Kanakuk if you're interested.

Volunteer/Shadow

Summer is great time to give back to your community. Without school hours taking up your day, you'll have time to work within an organization's office hours. If you have an issue about which you are passionate, find a company or non-profit with the same love you have and find a volunteer position. Shadowing is another awesome way to work in an area which you love.

Learn a New Skill

Whether you've always wanted to learn to paint or have a secret desire to surf the waves, now is the time. Take a class at your local arts center, or audition for a play. Learn to ballroom dance or to cook. The possibilities are endless.

Choose any option from this list to fill your summer, or mix and match. Truth be told, it doesn't matter how you spend it, just that you spent it well.

All in all, it was a never to be forgotten summer — one of those summers which come seldom into any life, but leave a rich heritage of beautiful memories in their going — one of those summers which, in a fortunate combination of delightful weather, delightful friends and delightful doing, come as near to perfection as anything can come in this world